In 1920, women were given the right to vote. In 2017, they discovered that they have ALWAYS had the right to say "no."

Somehow, in this land of equality and the glory of the individual, the idea has permeated that these concepts do not necessarily apply to women. Such has been the case, particularly in the workplace.

It seems some men have not understood that the terms "colleague" or "co-worker" can be either male or female.

Obviously, careers that were once the exclusive province of men and now include women require a change of attitude or, at least, a change of behavior. Perhaps sexual misconduct can die a natural death when thought is given to job performance, talent, and achievement, not gender.

That is a reasonable expectation. The reputation of providing equal opportunity for women is justified if there is no tolerance for harassment. Equal opportunity for anyone exists, in the truest sense, only in a safe, accepting environment.

The past year has seen overwhelming media coverage of the downfall of the rich and powerful by the accusations of the glamorous and high profile. To me, this is not the real heart of the story. How can the “everywoman” relate to those who dominate the headlines?

The feelings of empowerment and unwillingness to accept sexual misconduct must flow down from the headlines and attach to all women regardless of their economic status or job description. I believe that message was not delivered by that very same media that presented us with the headlines.

In contrast to one columnist writing on this subject, we cannot accept the fact that society pays attention to some and not others. I was appalled when it was suggested that women in certain jobs are voiceless and not seen, “especially when their skin is dark.” Not in America. Significantly, cultural and legal changes spring from the actions of those who feel they have been overlooked. Speaking up has long been a part of our history.

There are, of course, difficult to answer questions about what constitutes sexual misconduct, the level of seriousness, and the guarantee of due process for those accused. Such concerns are an inevitable part of societal changes.

Those who describe themselves as victims also have a moral obligation of fairness, honesty, and objectivity. Protecting women and others against mistreatment must co-exist with adherence to our justice system.

One thing appears to be certain. More thought will be given to how we respond and interact with others. That is always a good thing.

Our culture dictates the abolition of any kind of harassment. In America, we like to imagine being protected by a warm, gentle breeze felt equally by all of our citizens.

For years, there was an often heard expression used to describe the position of women. “You’ve come a long way, baby.” Obviously, not far enough.

Nancy Rubin Weil of Palm Desert is a retired teacher and former journalism student. Email her at nrmwe@aol.com.

People carry signs addressing the issue of sexual harassment at a #MeToo rally outside of Trump International Hotel on December 9, 2017 in New York City.(Photo: Stephanie Keith, Getty Images)